Key Takeaways
- The USA Field Hockey 2026 Bessant Grow the Game Grant application window is now open
- The grant aims to support leaders in building "Field Hockey Hot Spots" where the sport is accessible to people of all ages and skill levels
- Preference is given to applicants growing the sport at the youth, club, and high school level, and increasing USA Field Hockey membership
- The application window closes on March 15, 2026, and $50,000 will be awarded to successful applicants
- The grant is made possible by the generosity of Cathy Bessant, a USA Field Hockey Board of Directors member, and Bank of America
Introduction to the Bessant Grow the Game Grant
The USA Field Hockey 2026 Bessant Grow the Game Grant is a exciting opportunity for leaders in the field hockey community to apply for funding to support the growth of the sport. The grant is designed to support the development of "Field Hockey Hot Spots", which are places where field hockey is an accessible sport option for people to discover, play, learn, compete, improve, and excel as athletes, coaches, umpires, and fans. The grant is made possible by the generosity of Cathy Bessant, a USA Field Hockey Board of Directors member, and Bank of America, who donated $1 million to USA Field Hockey in 2024, with $200,000 earmarked for growing the game.
Background and History of the Grant
The Bessant Grow the Game Grant was established in 2024, and in its first year, it awarded $50,000 to twelve recipients. In 2025, the grant awarded $50,000 to nine leaders across the country. The grant has already made a significant impact on the growth of field hockey in the United States, and it is expected to continue to do so over the next two years. The full list of past grantees can be viewed on the USA Field Hockey website. The grant is a testament to the commitment of Cathy Bessant and Bank of America to supporting the growth of field hockey in the United States.
Eligibility and Application Process
The Bessant Grow the Game Grant is open to clubs and organizations committed to growing the game at the youth, club, and high school level. Successful field hockey ecosystems, or "Field Hockey Hot Spots", may include clubs, state chapters, multi-sport organizations such as schools, parks and recreation centers, YMCAs, sports facilities, and more. Applicants are encouraged to explain how their program will grow the sport and increase USA Field Hockey membership. The application window is now open and will close on March 15, 2026. Applicants can apply online, and the maximum award per applicant is $10,000.
Support and Resources for Grantees
In addition to financial support, grantees will receive networking opportunities, mentorship, and participation in the grant cohort. The grant cohort will provide a platform for grantees to share their experiences, best practices, and challenges, and to learn from each other. The 2026 grantees will also participate as mentors for the 2025 grantees, providing guidance and support to help them grow their programs. This mentorship program will help to create a sustainable and supportive community of field hockey leaders who are committed to growing the game.
Impact and Future of the Grant
The Bessant Grow the Game Grant has the potential to make a significant impact on the growth of field hockey in the United States. By supporting the development of "Field Hockey Hot Spots", the grant will help to increase participation in the sport, particularly at the youth, club, and high school level. The grant will also help to increase USA Field Hockey membership, which is a key indicator of the sport’s growth and development. As Simon Hoskins, USA Field Hockey’s Executive Director, stated, "This is an amazing gift from Cathy that will be hugely impactful in Growing the Game." The grant is a testament to the commitment of Cathy Bessant and Bank of America to supporting the growth of field hockey in the United States, and it is expected to have a lasting impact on the sport.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the USA Field Hockey 2026 Bessant Grow the Game Grant is a exciting opportunity for leaders in the field hockey community to apply for funding to support the growth of the sport. The grant is designed to support the development of "Field Hockey Hot Spots", and it has the potential to make a significant impact on the growth of field hockey in the United States. With the support of Cathy Bessant and Bank of America, the grant will help to increase participation in the sport, particularly at the youth, club, and high school level, and will help to increase USA Field Hockey membership. As Cathy Bessant stated, "Growing field hockey in the United States is important for supporting athletic participation, inclusiveness, and competitiveness at all levels." The Bessant Grow the Game Grant is a key part of this effort, and it is expected to have a lasting impact on the sport.